The Union health ministry has initiated a crackdown on the sales of electronic cigarettes in India, sending notices to 15 websites that were found to be selling these banned products. News agency PTI reported that authorities directed the websites to immediately cease all advertisements and sales related to e-cigarettes.
Union health ministry Ongoing Monitoring and Possible Further Action
Official sources indicate that six more websites are currently under scrutiny, and the ministry is closely monitoring the advertising and sale of e-cigarettes on social media platforms. If necessary, these platforms may also receive notices in the near future.
Response from Websites and Potential Consequences
Out of the 15 websites that received notices, four have reportedly ceased operations, while the remaining ones are yet to respond. If these websites fail to comply with the health ministry’s notice, the ministry will reach out to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to take down the offending websites.
Legal Background and Previous Actions
The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage, and Advertisement) Act, which prohibits e-cigarettes, came into effect in 2019. This isn’t the first time the health ministry has taken action against e-cigarette sales. In February of this year, the ministry communicated concerns over the easy accessibility of e-cigarettes to children through local vendors.
Union health ministry Stricter Implementation and Opposition
In May, the health ministry issued a public notice to ensure stricter implementation of the Act. The notice advised various stakeholders. Stakeholders include producers, manufacturers, importers, exporters, distributors, advertisers, transporters, social media websites, and online shopping platforms. The notice advised them to refrain from getting involved. Involvement includes producing, procuring, or selling e-cigarettes.
Despite opposition to the government’s decision to ban e-cigarettes, the Centre has maintained its stance. However, reports indicate that people are still selling e-cigarettes in the country.
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